FDR Remembered

American Presidential Folk Hero

Whatever you think of politicians - today as well as yesterday- they are folk heroes. Folk heroes are those whose deeds we remember and even use as examples of what to do as well as what not to do.

This week is the birthday week of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 32nd U.S. President. Born January 30, 1882, this New York native was elected to four terms (1933-1945). In total, he  served for 12 years and four terms, and was the only president ever to serve more than eight years.

To his credit: 

• During the  Great Depression, he took charge to restore public confidence. He spoke directly to the nation in a series of radio  "fireside chats."
• His ambitious New Deal programs and reforms redefined the role of the federal government in the lives of Americans. 
• He led the United States from isolationism to victory over Nazi Germany and its allies in World War II.
• Spearheading  the  wartime alliance between Britain, the Soviet Union and the United States, he helped to shape the building blocks of what would later become the United Nations.  

Want to know more about FDR? Click here to learn more about folk heroes and heroines.